20 Hollywood Stars Who Have Left the U.S. and Why

**A Star-Studded Exodus: Celebrities Finding New Homes Abroad**

In recent years, a growing number of celebrities have opted to leave the United States in search of fresh beginnings and tranquillity. From Rosie O’Donnell’s relocation to Ireland to Lindsay Lohan’s family life in Dubai, many stars are now dwelling beyond the borders of the U.S., signalling a significant trend among the Hollywood elite.

Rosie O’Donnell has been especially vocal about her move to Ireland, which she made in January 2025 alongside her youngest son, Clay. During an appearance on Chris Cuomo’s SiriusXM show, she expressed little regret, stating, “I think I did what I needed to do to save myself, my child and my sanity.” The actress described the political climate in the U.S. as unsettling and attributed her move to a need for a more peaceful environment.

Similarly, actress Robin Wright has made headlines with her candid remarks regarding her shift to the U.K. In a conversation with *The Sunday Times*, she described America as a “s—show” and praised her tranquil life in England. Wright’s decision to relocate also followed a series of back-to-back projects that took her overseas, leading her to appreciate a slower pace of life.

James Cameron, the renowned filmmaker, has long had an affinity for New Zealand, a passion he initially discovered in 1994. However, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic that he decided to make a permanent move with his family. Cameron attributed his decision to New Zealand’s effective handling of the pandemic and the serene lifestyle the country offered. He recalls feeling an instant connection to the country and promised himself he would one day reside there.

Television personalities Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi have embraced life in the English countryside, having moved there after selling their Californian estate for a stunning $96 million. DeGeneres cited the political climate, specifically the re-election of Donald Trump, as a factor that reinforced their decision to stay in the U.K. She described their rural life as “absolutely beautiful” and appreciated the respect and politeness of the people surrounding them.

Amber Heard’s relocation to Spain came after a turbulent chapter in her life, marked by a defamation trial against ex-husband Johnny Depp. Following the court proceedings, she sought refuge on the island of Mallorca before eventually settling in Madrid. Heard has expressed her contentment with her new life, aiming for greater privacy while raising her children.

Lindsay Lohan, born in New York City, has been residing in Dubai since 2015. The actress has embraced a quieter lifestyle, free from the invasive paparazzi that often characterised her life in the U.S. In her words, “Dubai gives me that space to have my own vision of what I need to do next.” Lohan’s move facilitated a sense of security and normalcy that she had long sought.

Meanwhile, other actors have also turned to Europe in search of new experiences. Gabriel Macht, known for his role in *Suits*, has kept the location of his new home private but relished the anonymity it offers. Fisher Stevens and his wife, Alexis Bloom, made the switch to London during the summer of 2025, aiming to expose their children to a different culture while expressing a collective discontent with the current U.S. administration.

Sophie Turner’s return to England following her divorce from Joe Jonas reflects a personal longing for familiarity and connection. Turner articulated her sense of belonging back home, where she felt her life could truly resume after years spent abroad.

The trend continues with stars like Courtney Love, who moved to London and expressed excitement over her application for British citizenship. As she noted, the political scene in the States feels increasingly alarming.

This growing migration among celebrities illustrates an emerging desire for a different lifestyle, one away from the bright lights of Hollywood. While the reasons vary—from political discontent and personal crises to the simple pursuit of happiness—the move toward quieter life outside the U.S. signifies a broader conversation about the American experience in the current socio-political climate. As these stars find solace overseas, they may inspire others to reconsider their own aspirations for life beyond American borders.